This Morning Row: Bonnie Blue's Plea - A Blogger's Journey
Okay, so you guys know I'm obsessed with my morning routine. It's my sacred time, you know? Quiet, before the chaos of the day descends. Lately, that routine's included a new element: Bonnie Blue's Plea. Now, before you think I'm talking about some bizarre legal case, let me explain. Bonnie Blue is my grumpy, yet undeniably adorable, cat. And her "plea"? It's a plaintive meow, demanding her breakfast immediately as I start my morning row.
The Genesis of the Morning Row
First off, let me back up a bit. About six months ago, I got really into rowing. Not like, Olympic-level rowing, haha. I got a Concept2 RowErg Rower and started doing indoor rowing workouts. I found some great YouTube channels with various rowing workouts for all fitness levels, it was amazing! I was honestly shocked at how effective this low-impact, full-body workout was. I lost ten pounds in just a few weeks! Plus, it’s a fantastic cardio workout, and it really helps my mental health too. Seriously, it's changed my life. I started with just 20-minute sessions, gradually building up my stamina. Now, I aim for at least 30 minutes most mornings.
Bonnie Blue Interrupts My Zen
But then Bonnie Blue entered the picture – or rather, she meowed her way into the picture. My morning routine went from serene to... slightly chaotic. My initial attempts to ignore her were unsuccessful. She's incredibly persistent. I mean, seriously persistent. She'd rub against my legs, swat at my oars (yes, really!), and let out these increasingly desperate meows. It was hilarious... at first. Then, it became a huge distraction. My form suffered. My times went up. I was pissed.
The Solution: Scheduled Breakfasts for a Smoother Row
I realized I needed a strategy. Ignoring her wasn't working. So I tried something different: scheduled breakfasts. I started setting out her food before I started my workout. This little change totally transformed my morning routine. The difference was night and day. I'm not kidding, it was like that scene in The Office where Dwight finally gets his stapler back. Total relief.
The key is consistency. Cats thrive on routine. I also tried feeding her a bit before my workout to give her that immediate gratification, and then I'd put out the rest of her food for later. This works surprisingly well!
Tips for a Successful Morning Row (and Happy Cat)
So, here’s my advice based on my Bonnie Blue saga:
- Establish a consistent routine: Your body and your cat will thank you.
- Prepare your equipment and pets' food the night before: This saves you valuable time in the morning.
- Reward good behavior: If your pet is being cooperative, give them extra cuddles and attention (or a yummy treat!).
- Don't be afraid to adjust your strategy: What works for one person (or one cat) might not work for another.
- Find what works for YOU: Experiment until you find a routine that helps you stay focused and achieve your fitness goals.
The moral of the story? Even the most peaceful morning routines can be interrupted by a demanding feline overlord. But with a little planning and patience, you can find a way to achieve your fitness goals, whilst keeping your furry friends happy. Now, if you'll excuse me, I hear Bonnie Blue's "plea" already. Time for a morning row!